Hot and abnormally dry across Finger Lakes

Temperatures will rise into the mid and upper 80s Friday afternoon across the Finger Lakes, with a few of the warmest locations possibly touching 90º. Most of the area has not seen significant rain in two or more weeks.

Friday will be hot and dry as the warmest air since late last summer sizzles into the Finger Lakes.

Temperatures across the Finger Lakes should easily rise into the mid 80s Friday afternoon. Along the Lake Plain of the northern Finger Lakes and in some of the valleys of the Southern Tier, upper 80s to near 90º is a real possibility.

Friday will likely be the hottest of the next few days, but Saturday and Sunday will not lag far behind, with more mid 80s possible.

The air and ground remains very dry across the Finger Lakes. Many areas have not seen a soaking rain in weeks, which has made the greening-up process slower than normal. With the hot temperatures and dry conditions, brush fires will continue to be a major concern across the area. I have read countless stories and reports this week of brush fires quickly flaring up almost immediately after a live cigarette butt is tossed out a window.

A burn ban remains in place at least for another week across all of New York State until May 15th.

The U.S. Drought Monitor classifies much of the region as ‘Abnormally Dry’. The dry conditions and hot temperatures will continue to cause a serious risk of brush fires. Click to enlarge.

The U.S. Drought Monitor now has classified most of our region as ‘Abnormally Dry’. In fact, 73.55% of New York State has been given this classification- a huge increase from just 19.05% three months ago.

The chance for a few isolated thunderstorms remains for Saturday, with a slightly better chance on Sunday. Unfortunately, not everyone will see this rain. Worse yet, the widespread shot of rain that was possible Monday into Tuesday is becoming less and less certain, especially for the southern and eastern parts of the region.

Meteorologist Drew Montreuil has been forecasting the weather in the Finger Lakes region since 2006 and has degrees in meteorology from SUNY Oswego (B.S. with Honors) and Cornell (M.S.).
Drew and his wife have three young boys and also run a goat milk soap business, Ye Olde Goat Cart. When not working or playing with the boys, he is probably out for a run through the countryside.